1997 Won't start - I can hear the fuel pump

[SydneysMom]

Went to lunch the other day, check engine light came on and car began running rough. Immediately turned it around and as I entered into the garage the car stalled as if out of gas. Car cranks but gives no sounds of firing.

I have listened to the fuel tank with the ignition on and I hear a pump running sound.

Dealer told me to check the relay under the hood. But didn't know which one. There are 4 of the small square relays.

Is this the right direction to look or should I take a look at the fuel filter?

[HotZ28]

You need to find out what the code(s) are, fuel related problems will not set a code. Only way to check that is with a fuel pressure gage.

[Ratt643]

I'm with Z28, you need to see what the codes are in the PCM. Also might want to check the Mass air flow sensor. If you remove the screen, you will see what look like small resisters between two wires. If there is black film on any of them, clean them with throttle body cleaner( most have a teflon coating that the throttle body cleaner will not harm). Also check for any vacuum leaks. I have had to replace one intermitten fuel pump in a LeSabre, but it never tripped the Check Eng. Light, it just lost fuel pressure without rhyme or reason. Hope this helps!

[Carwhiz]

see if you actually have fuel pressure, you can hear the pump but check what it's actually pumping. if you do have fuel, check for spark. ignition control modules/ coil pack/ or even a bad spark plug wire can cause a no start on these cars. If you have spark, and you have fuel....then we have a problem. check the basics first.